National Nutrition Month

March is National Nutrition Month and we wanted to discuss how a balanced diet impacts not only your overall health, but your oral health as well.

I don’t think the balanced diet is a new concept anymore, and as consumers we are more aware of our food labels than ever before.

I think the tough thing about nutrition, these days, lies in our lack of time and energy. Who has time to eat three square meals a day? Or pack healthy lunches and make wholesome dinners all the time? Something’s gotta give, right? I mean, we are busy!

If you resolved that 2015 is the year that you regain your health, snacking smarter is a great place to start. It seems a little easier to be intentional about healthy meals, but snacks are usually the thing that derail our healthy intentions.

Drink Milk, Go Nuts!

Are there certain foods that are actually good for your teeth? Yes!

Nutritious choices make all the difference in how we look and feel about our bodies. And, certain foods help to rebuild calcium in your teeth and bones, while preventing decay. It’s a win/win!

If you are able to digest it, dairy products are a great choice. Milk, yogurt, and cheeses are a naturally lower in sugar, contain a solid amount of protein, and help to rebuild the calcium in your body. Your teeth will thank you!

Another solid option is nuts. While, you need to be careful that nuts don’t get stuck in your teeth, they are good for you! The amount of chewing required when eating nuts increases saliva production which naturally prevents tooth decay. Plus, they are packed with fat-free protein and fiber!

Nutritious Habits

Nutrition month is a good reminder to form healthier habits all year long. Nuts, dairy, and smarter snacking are all simple steps in the right direction.

For more information on how nutrition affects your oral health visit our blog.